CBS Sports has conducted an IDP league annually since 2002, showcasing the evolution of fantasy football. Although the roster of participants has changed over the years, Dave Richard remains a constant since the inaugural draft. Jamey Eisenberg took charge of the league in 2007 and continues to champion the excitement of using defensive players in fantasy scoring.

This year's league featured 12 teams and required each team to start nine defensive players: 2 DL, 3 LB, 3 DB, and a flex position (DL/LB/DB). In addition, teams fielded eight offensive players: QB, 2 RB, 3 WR, TE, and a flex (RB/WR/TE).

While some IDP leagues may draft only a single defensive player, this format emphasizes the importance of defensive talent. The first IDP was not selected until Round 7, when Jack Campbell from Detroit was chosen, leading to a surge in defensive picks following his selection.

Key strategies for drafting include:

• Targeting linebackers who accumulate tackles, such as Campbell, Jordyn Brooks (Miami), and Blake Cashman (Minnesota).
• Selecting defensive linemen known for their sack prowess like Myles Garrett (Rams), Will Anderson Jr. (Houston), and Aidan Hutchinson (Detroit).
• Prioritizing defensive backs, particularly safeties, who consistently make plays, including Kyle Hamilton (Baltimore), Derwin James (Chargers), and Jeremy Chin (Las Vegas).

The league awards points as follows:

• 6 points for touchdowns.
• 1 point per 10 yards rushing/receiving and 25 yards passing.
• 3 points for sacks, interceptions, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries.
• 2 points for pass defensed, 1 point for tackles, and 0.5 points for assisted tackles.

The draft order for this year's league was:

1. Joe Pisapia, Fandom NFL
2. Jamey Eisenberg, CBS Sports
3. Gary Davenport, Godfather of IDP
4. Joey Wright, Footballguys
5. Jake Ciely, The Athletic
6. Alfredo Brown, Pretend GM
7. Chris Harris, Harris Football
8. David Gonos, FSWA Hall of Fame, Class of 2021
9. Matt Schauf, Draft Sharks
10. Heath Cummings, CBS Sports
11. Bob Harris, Footballguys
12. Dave Richard, CBS Sports

Eisenberg encourages both IDP veterans and newcomers to study this draft for valuable insights, emphasizing the fun and strategic depth that IDP formats bring to fantasy football.